Collaborative law

The "collaborative law" approach, following a separation, is quite different from the more traditional methods of dispute resolution (such as litigation or mediation). It empowers you and your former partner to have greater control and input into your settlement process, via confidential meetings between you and your lawyers. You and your former partner can maintain control of your negotiations, any associated costs and ultimately, your outcomes.

The three basic principles of collaborative law

The three basic principles of collaborative law are:

a pledge not to go to Court

an honest exchange of information

a solution through negotiation in good faith, that takes into account the parties' priorities and where applicable, those of their children.

Our team includes collaborative lawyers who can assist you at all stages, from separation or divorce through to settlement of property and other financial assets. We are able to guide you through the process and draft all documentation to reflect your negotiated settlement.

Benefits of collaborative law

In the right circumstances, collaborative law can offer a number of benefits, including:

it is generally cheaper, faster and more transparent than litigation

it is more timely, in that you and your former partner determine the place and content of negotiations

the process allows you and your former partner to have control over any restructuring or allocation of your assets

it is less adversarial, which can have flow-on benefits for the ongoing relationship between former partners - this is particularly important where children are involved.